My Holiday Decor Toolbox: Must-Have Tools & Supplies for Stress-Free Decorating

Jan 2

Here are my favorite tools that I MUST have near me at all times when decorating for the holidays.

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Holiday decorating should feel joyful — not chaotic! Throughout multiple years of being a “more is more” kind of decorator, I’ve narrowed down THE must-have tools I absolutely can’t live without every season.

In this post, I’m sharing my essential tools that help me enjoy the process of decorating without the stress — and the countless hours of digging around my house trying to find that one really good pair of scissors (IYKYK). If you’re ready to start next season off on the right foot, check out the my tried-and-true fave tools below and why they made the cut.

1. Tree-Fluffing Gloves
I admit it. I am a tree-aholic! In my house alone, not counting my clients’ homes, I put up over 15 trees! That’s a lot of fluffing, and those prickly branches can really take a toll on your hands and skin. Before you even take your tree out of the box, make sure you put on some sturdy yet lightweight gloves to install and fluff your tree. Any gardening gloves will do. And if you can find some full-length gloves to cover your arms too, even better. Or make sure you wear long sleeves.

Check out my favorite gloves here.

2. Floral Wire and/or Pipe Cleaners
Hanging ornaments should fill you with joy, not dread. Forget using those metal ornament hooks that get tangled in a wad, get all over the floor and then you end up stepping on them later (ouch). Not fun. Instead, use floral wire or pipe cleaners to attach your ornaments to your tree or garlands. I use floral wire quite a bit, but I really love pipe cleaners as they are softer to the touch. I typically use dark green as it blends into trees and garlands seamlessly. Either option is inexpensive and so easy to manipulate how you need.

Here are some great options for floral wire and pipe cleaners.

3. Wire Cutters
It goes without saying you must have some good wire cutters when working with floral wire and pipe cleaners! Invest in your own pair to be used ONLY for decorating purposes. I used to just borrow my husband’s that were out in the garage, but who wants to dig around through a bucket of tools every year? Just get your own and keep with all your supplies to make life easier.

Check out the wire cutters I use here.

4. High-Quality Fabric Scissors
I can’t live without a really good pair of sharp scissors. These are a MUST if you are doing any decorating with ribbon! A dedicated pair of fabric scissors is crucial, especially if you want those crisp edges on your bows. Always cut ribbon at an angle to help prevent fraying. Pro tip: Don’t use these wonderful scissors for anything but cutting fabric or ribbon!

I love these scissors.

5. Cordless Glue Gun and Glue Sticks
For years, I wrestled with a tiny plug-in glue gun I bought at the dollar store. I finally invested in a big-girl rechargeable, cordless glue gun and it has been life changing! I use this thing for making wreaths, adding embellishments to ornaments, making gift tags and much, much more!

If you’re ready to experience hands-free heaven, check out this glue gun here. And hello, it’s pink!

6. Command Strips and Hooks
If you are planning to hang anything, whether it’s lights, garlands, wreaths, stockings or wall art, I can’t live without a whole arsenal of Command products. They are easy to use and can hold just about anything. Forget nails, tape – any of that. These puppies are in all shapes and sizes and when finished using them they leave your walls and surfaces damage-free.

Here’s a starter set.

7. Hand-Held Vacuum Cleaner
Between shedding faux tree needles and hoards of glitter, you absolutely need a quick and easy way to clean up any messes after install. I bring this Black & Decker Dust Buster with me to every job for fast clean-up. It’s super powerful and much more effective than a broom and dust pan!

My favorite Dust Buster.

8. Extension Cords
If you’re anything like me, holiday decor can never have enough twinkle lights! And more lights mean more extension cords. I stock up before each season on cords in multiple colors and lengths so that if I want to add more lights, I can just plug and play!
Check out these extension cords and surge protectors.

9. Handy Tool Caddy
Last year, I treated myself to this pink tool case on wheels, and it just might be my favorite thing on this list. It rolls right along with me when I’m hopping from client to client and keeps everything perfectly corralled instead of floating around in a dozen different bags and containers. Somehow it fits everything (and then some), which means I’m never scrambling for supplies at the last minute. And I love the color. :)

10. Music (aka the Mood-Setter)
Don’t underestimate the power of a good playlist. Investing in a pair of AirPods or comfortable headphones is just as essential as scissors or a glue gun in my book. Being able to listen to your favorite tunes (or holiday music on repeat) instantly makes decorating feel more fun and less like a task. It’s the easiest way to set the mood, stay motivated and turn decorating time into something you actually look forward to.

You’re Ready to Decorate!
And there you have it! My top tools for a stress-free decorating experience. Holiday decorating is so much more fun when you’re not hunting for scissors or realizing you’re one extension cord short. Having a go-to toolbox stocked with the basics seriously takes the stress out of the process and lets you focus on the fun. This little collection of tools has saved me time, a few headaches and more than a few trips back to the garage. And the good thing is, it’s pretty inexpensive — especially if you use it year after year. So, if you don’t already have a holiday decor toolbox and are ready to make your next decorating sesh more magical, consider this your sign to start one! You’ll thank yourself every season after!